Here’s a brief recap of the issues that the folks at NC Policy Watch have been following this week.

Chris Fitzsimon reports on two committees, the Joint House and Senate Finance Committee and the Governor’s Budget Reform and Accountability Commission, that met Thursday in his column “The more things in Raleigh change, the more they stay the same.[1]” Despite the challenges facing the state budget, it doesn’t look like we can expect any innovative reforms in this election year.

Fitzsimon also reports on Governor Perdue’s road show in his column “Perdue reboots agenda.[2]” Perdue is traveling across the state this week laying out her plans for the next three years.

Rob Schofield highlights why immigration reform should be part of our national recovery in his Weekly Briefing entitled “A new and improved “us”[3].”

Making reference to a popular T.V. game show, Schofield takes a jab at conservative lawmakers who refuse to acknowledge the impact of global climate change in his Setting the Record Straight commentary entitled “Wanted: “Lifeline” for conservative lawmakers.[4]”

Chris Fitzsimon also takes on the conservatives in his column “The repetitive right-wing rhetoric rolls on[5].” Repeating statements to the contrary does not change the fact that government stimulus is helping lift the economy out of recession.

This week’s edition of “Monday numbers[6]” is reminder to all of us why we are celebrating the life and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King. Many activities are planned throughout the Triangle starting Friday and continuing through Monday. Please check the community calendar on the NC Policy Watch home page[7] (just below the main article) for a list of events.